A detail present in the meat packaging sold by the Mercado can go unnoticed to many customers, but it has an essential function. The Spanish supermarket chain clarified the usefulness of the small pillow at the bottom of the trays, and that play an important role in conservation and food safety.
At first glance, consumers see only the piece of meat packed in plastic or vacuum. However, under meat is an absorbent cushion whose mission is to retain liquids released during conservation and transportation. This simple mechanism contributes to keeping the product fresh longer and reduces the risk of bacteria proliferation.
Absorbent pillows with decisive paper‘
These small elements, made of safe materials for food contact (usually cellulose and high absorption polymers) maintain the meat in better condition, according to the Spanish digital newspaper Noticias Labor. By absorbing released juices, they prevent liquid from accumulating at the bottom of the tray, something unparalleled and could become a focus of contamination.
In addition, using these pillows helps that, at the time of cooking, the meat has a more pleasant texture. As part of the excess liquid has already been retained, food cooks more balanced and tasty, without the skillet accumulates unwanted water.
ATTENTION: They are not edible
Although they are able to directly contact food, Mercado warns that these pillows are not edible. If they are cooked by mistake along with meat, it is recommended that the product be not consumed, as heating may release harmful substances.
Conservation Councils
The company also adds some practical recommendations: meat can be frozen in the tray itself, but it is preferable to remove it from the packaging and wrap it in adherent film, bags or freezing containers.
In either case, it should be frozen within the expiration date and consumed within 24 hours of defrost, according to the.
Thus, a seemingly secondary detail proves to be fundamental to ensure freshness, taste and food safety in the meats sold by the market.
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